Schaumburg meeting with potential Alexian Field lessees

The Village of Schaumburg is meeting with potential tenants for Alexian Field this week, including a group that would buy the remaining assets of the troubled Schaumburg Flyers (independent; North American League) and pay off what the team owes to the village and the Park Board.

City Manager Kenneth Fritz confirmed the talks via email. The village is expected to hear pitches from groups affiliated with the independent American Association and Frontier League as well.

Two issues at play: a) whether or not the back debt of the Flyers — now over $900,000 with interest and penalties — can be recouped; and b) who is ready to set up shop with a team in 2011. As we’ve reported, a team playing this season at Alexian Field is a priority for Village officials, which could limit the ability of the American Association to make a winning pitch: the league’s schedule is out and there doesn’t seem to be much flexibility in adding a single team. However, the Frontier League apparently has such flexibility and could swap in a Schaumburg franchise for another if need be.

Starting behind the eight-ball: the North American League, which has the Flyers debt to contend with. Several owners tell us the NAL doesn’t want to lose Schaumburg and is prepared to overpay for a one-year lease if need be. The league is expected to present a contract that would address the debt and raise the rent at the ballpark in an effort to keep the territory.

A decision is expected soon after the pitches from the leagues to give the winner a chance to properly market the 2011 season.

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